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Is 'Southern Charm' desperate for ratings? Fans wonder as Thomas Ravenel returns despite sexual assault charges

Thomas apparently filmed briefly with former partner, Kathryn Dennis, who continues to be a season regular despite her struggles with substance abuse and rehab trip

Southern Charm's ousted cast member, Thomas Ravenel, escaped jail time after pleading guilty as sexual assault charges were levelled against him by his children's (Kensie and Saint) former nanny, Dawn Ledwell. The former state treasurer of South Carolina was arrested but later given a 30-day suspended sentence and $500 fine following which he was fired from Bravo. Naturally, it was expected that he wouldn't be back on the show but fans are surprised to see him in the premiere episode of 'Southern Charm' Season 7.

Thomas apparently filmed briefly with former partner, Kathryn Dennis, who continues to be a season regular despite her struggles with substance abuse and rehab trip. They are seen co-parenting their children, making them breakfast while having the crucial conversation about their situation. Thomas asked if they were misleading their kids by staying together but also added that the little ones are happy when they see their parents. Kathryn and Thomas have moved in together because her townhouse is being renovated. But, there's also one reason why she may stick around longer at Thomas'. Kathryn's house was the last place she was with her mother who died of cancer very recently. She said she was dragging her feet on it but at the same time mentally preparing her kids about the fact that they'll have to shift houses anyday.

Meanwhile, fans said that they want Thomas gone forever from the show. "The audacity of this show to put this man back on our screens before we even get to the first commercial break of the season... #SouthernCharm," Gibson Johns, producer, posted, while another tweeted: "#SouthernCharm must be desperate for ratings if they had to bring Thomas back."

"NO KATHRYN NOOOOOO! Why is Thomas on my tv screen?! I thought he was fired & banned from the show? Better yet I thought he was disgusted by the show & claimed he'd never go near it again lol #SouthernCharm," a viewer pointed out. "Welp I tuned in to Southern Charm to take a break from the chaos of world to find Thomas back on so I’m turning it off. Not watching; he was FIRED for good reason! Bad move Bravo, guess ur going for ratings. #SouthernCharm," another posted.

Catch all the new episodes of 'Southern Charm' Season 7 on Bravo every Thursday at 9/8c. For more information, check your local listings.